PENFIELD – Parker Dam State Park has noted its events for Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5.
Friday, July 3
Wetland Tour:4 p.m.- Environmental Education Classroom: A “Get Outdoors PA” Program
Were you aware that the variety of life found in our wetlands is exceeded only by the rainforest?These valuable ecosystems have much to offer us, although unfortunately few people actually understand their significance.If you’d like to learn why these “swamps,” “bogs,” and “wastelands” are really so important, join us as we discover the answer.
Pennsylvania‘s Owls:8:30 p.m.- Campground Amphitheater
Owls are one of the most unique and awe-inspiring animals of the night.In Pennsylvania, they are hunters of the dark that range in size from the majestic great horned owl to the tiny saw whet owl, standing just seven inches tall.Learn more about these and other native owls at this program on Pennsylvania’s diverse owl population.
Saturday, July 4
Morning Walk:8:30 a.m.- Beach House: A “Get Outdoors PA” Program
The park is alive early each morning with wildlife, as well as people enjoying the resource.Be a part of it as we meet to take a short walk and talk about any nature and conservation issues that may be on your mind.Bring your binoculars, as there is usually a host of birds and other things to see along the way.
Children’s Hour:10:30 a.m.- Beach
Are the kids bored with no Saturday morning TV?Forget that little screen and send the kids to learn about the outdoors and all that can be found here.Games, crafts, and/or other activities will allow them to gain a new appreciation for the natural world.
Learn to Kayak:1 p.m.- behind Beach House, A “Get Outdoors PA” Program
Kayaking has become incredibly popular.Come discover why.Bring your own kayak, or borrow one of the limited-number of park kayaks, paddles, and PFD’s.We’ll learn the basics of what a kayak is, the different types of equipment, paddling techniques, safety, and more.
Annual Reading of the Declaration of Independence:2 p.m.- Beach
Today we celebrate our country and the freedoms it allows us.Let us reflect on these freedoms as the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence is broadcast over the public address system for all to listen and appreciate.
Animal Skulls:3 p.m.- Beach House steps
Were you aware that the opossum has more teeth than any other land animal?Or, that a black bear can be aged by counting the rings inside its teeth just like the rings on a tree?These and other interesting wildlife facts will be discussed as we investigate some skulls of our local species.
PA’s Timber Rattlesnake:8:30 p.m.- Campground Amphitheater
Our native timber rattlesnakes receive a very bad reputation.However, the ways in which these creatures live and survive is incredible.Come learn more about this unique animal’s place in the ecosystem and why so much that you think you know about them is actually false.
Sunday, July 5
Lou and Helen Adams CCC Museum: Open to the public– 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
History Walk:2 p.m.- Beach House steps A “Get Outdoors PA” Program
Come take an easy walk and learn all about Parker Dam before it became a park.From middle of nowhere to somewhere we all gather to meet family and friends, this area has changed over the years.If the water’s not too high, we will cross the stream and complete our loop.The hike will be approximately one mile in length.
Tea and Talk:4 p.m.- Beach House steps
Meet for some “PA Wild” conversation and try some hot, sweet fern/mountain mint tea grown right here in the park.You will have to bring along a cup/mug suitable for hot beverages; and, your questions about the park and its wildlife.
Also, the High Country Arts and Crafts Fairat S.B. Elliott State Park is scheduled on Sunday, July 12 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.High Country is an annual event for all ages featuring:arts and crafts vendors, demonstrations, entertainment, chicken barbeque, shuttles to and from the parking area and much more.
*You can find more information about state park programs and special events by logging on to the Bureau of State Parks website at www.VisitPAParks.com , and clicking on “Calendar”.
Access for People with Disabilities
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks:
888-PA-PARKS(voice)
717-558-2710(local or international voice)
888-537-7294(TTY)
717-558-2711(local or international TTY)
711 (AT&T Relay Services)